Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Geography

Answer the following questions:

1. What is the relationship between Posidonia and Caulerpa?
2. Which factors influence human impact on the environment?
3. Which are the main threats to the environment?
4. How do we prevent environmental degradation? (Draw a mind map for the next session)

1. What’s an Ecological Footprint?

The idea of an ecological footprint is basically a measure of how much area is needed to support our lifestyles, how much land is needed to produce all the things we consume, and what is needed to clean up our waste.

Act.3. International Agreements on the Environment

a) Numerous international agreements have been signed aimed at protecting the environment, including agreements to combat climate change; protect the Earth´s ozone layer, manage... Continue reading "Environmental Sustainability: Threats, Impact, and Solutions" »

Humans Along with Living Organisms Form a Complex Web of Ecological System

Humans along with other living organisms form a complex web of ecological systems in which we are only a part and very much dependent on this system for our own existence. For example, plants, animals, and micro-organisms recreate the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil that produces our food without which we cannot survive. Forests play a key role in the ecological system as they are also the primary producers on which all other living beings depend. Biodiversity or biological diversity is immensely rich in wildlife and cultivated species, diverse in form and function but closely integrated in a system through multiple networks of interdependencies.

• ENLIGHTMENT- It was a movement that promote changes in the 18th century

Technological Progress: The invention of new machines enabled factories to produce goods more quickly and cheaply. Decreased prices benefited consumers. The invention of the steam engine was particularly important, revolutionizing many sectors of the economy.

Favorable Political and Social Structure: Great Britain's parliamentary monarchy allowed the bourgeoisie to participate in government and political decision-making. This social group promoted measures that advanced its economic interests.

Textile Industry: Technological innovations in spinning and weaving machines increased production.

Iron and Steel Production: New machines led to better quality and lower prices.

Transport: The steam engine revolutionized communications through its application... Continue reading "The Industrial Revolution: Causes, Impact, and Social Changes" »

Colonial imperialism originated due to the necessity of industrialized countries in Europe to find new markets where they could sell their industrial production, obtain raw materials, and invest their excess capital. Additionally, the economic changes during the 19th century stimulated population growth and emigration. Imperial expansion also occurred as industrial powers sought to increase their political power and hinder their competitors' expansion. This entire process was legitimized by racist and nationalist conceptions held by scientists, writers, and politicians, who justified the colonization of other villages based on their perceived inferiority to the white race and the need to civilize them.

Hawaii: A Volcanic Paradise in the Central Pacific

Hawaii, a state of the United States, is a volcanic archipelago located in the Central Pacific. It is the most remote chain of islands in the world, boasting a rich history and vibrant culture.

Geography and Climate

Hawaii's islands were once known as the Sandwich Islands. Today, they are home to over 1.4 million people and cover an area of 28,330 square kilometers. The state's natural beauty is unparalleled, with abundant flora and fauna. The climate is moderate year-round, making it an ideal destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Agriculture and Industry

Agriculture plays a significant role in Hawaii's economy. The fertile land and favorable climate allow for the cultivation of... Continue reading "Discover the Enchanting Islands of Hawaii: A Guide to Its Natural Beauty, Culture, and History" »

Economy: Craft Production

Continued to be regulated by associations called guilds (groups of persons who worked in the same association) and the domestic system. Trade was dominated by economic powers such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, England, and the United Provinces.

Social Conflicts

Taxes burdened ordinary people to pay for military expenses and luxuries for the court. Nobles demanded higher rents and services from peasants, leading to peasant impoverishment. The wealthy bourgeoisie benefited from buying lands at low prices. Urban and peasant revolts ensued due to growing taxation and food shortages.

Peace and War

Philip II and the Duke of Lerma pursued a peace policy, strengthening the treasury. Spain engaged in various treaties and wars, including... Continue reading "Economic, Social, and Political Changes in Europe: 16th-17th Century" »

Cities vs. Villages

A city is a place with a population exceeding 10,000 inhabitants. Cities are characterized by high-rise buildings, factories, businesses, and historical districts. In contrast, villages are smaller settlements with limited businesses, few inhabitants, fewer services, and a predominantly agricultural economy.

Pre-Industrial Cities

In the pre-industrial era, less than 10% of the population resided in cities, which typically housed between 5,000 to 10,000 people. These cities served various functions:

• Military
• Administrative
• Economic
• Religious

The Classic City (9th-8th Centuries BC)

During this period, Phoenicians and Greeks established trading posts along the coasts of Hispania. The Romanization of these areas marked the beginning... Continue reading "From Ancient Towns to Modern Metropolises: Understanding Urban Development" »

Southern Europe

Geographic Features

Mountains and Peninsulas

• Pyrenees Mountains: Form a natural border between Spain and France.
• Undersea Mountains: Contribute to the formation of many islands in Southern Europe.
• Alps: Europe's highest mountain range.
• Apennines: Run along the Italian Peninsula.
• Balkan Peninsula: Home to Greece.
• Iberian Peninsula: Location of Spain and Portugal.

Water Bodies and Climate

• Mediterranean Sea: Influences the climate and culture of Southern European countries.
• Mediterranean Climate: Characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, ideal for growing crops.
• Tagus River: The longest river in Southern Europe.
• Po River: Flows through a fertile and densely populated area in Italy.

Culture and History

Ancient Greece

• Democracy:

Trade Diversion and Creation

Trade diversion: A shift in the pattern of trade from low-cost world producers to higher-cost CU or FTA members.

-e: trade diversion

Trade creation: An expansion in world trade that results from the formation of a preferential trade arrangement.

B+d: trade creation

Rules of Origin in Regional Economic Integration

Define rules of origin and which form of regional economic integration requires them.

Rules of origin are required in Free Trade Areas to avoid trade deflection and prevent export companies from outside the FTA from benefiting unfairly. These rules are the criteria established to determine the national source of a product. They are important because duties and restrictions often depend upon the source of imports.... Continue reading "Understanding Trade Agreements: Creation, Diversion, and Types" »